Local motorcyclists gear up for annual Rally for Hope and Hunger

Jessica Scott | The Grand Rapids PressTodd McCord sits on his 2007 Harley-Davidson Electra Glide Ultra Classic motorcycle at Grand Rapids Harley-Davidson in Hudsonville. McCord will be riding in the 11th annual Rally for Hope and Hunger benefiting God's Kitchen and other Catholic charities in West Michigan. He is one of an estimated 250 motorcyclists planning to ride.

But riding with the wind in his face takes on a different intent when he gears up for the annual Rally for Hope and Hunger. The Ada Township man is a hard-core supporter of the fundraiser, now entering its 11th year.

McCord has helped raise money for God’s Kitchen and other Catholic Charities West Michigan programs since the rally’s inception.

He is gearing up to do the same this year, along with an expected 250-plus motorcyclists who on July 24 will roar their way from Grand Rapids Harley-Davidson in Hudsonville to the Ionia Free Fair grounds.

“It’s a great day and a lot of fun,” McCord said of the fundraiser. “You’re doing something that you know all goes toward the charity.”

This year’s goal is to raise $50,000 to $75,000, said Deborah Nykamp, president and chief executive officer of CCWM.

When it comes to benefits, motorcyclists know how to get the job done, Nykamp said.

“Folks who own motorcycles are really generous people and yet have a passion for riding Harleys and other bikes,” she said. “It’s an opportunity for them to do what they love and give back to the community.”

It’s also an opportunity to pour money into much-needed charities, Nykamp added.

Last year, God’s Kitchen and its outreach programs served more than 200,000 meals.
It currently serves more than 3,500 meals weekly to those who may otherwise go hungry.

Catholic Charities West Michigan provides help for individuals and families throughout the 11-county Diocese of Grand Rapids, regardless of a person’s ethnicity or religion.

CCWM works toward establishing a safe, nurturing family environment for children and adults.

Its services include community outreach programs providing food and shelter, behavioral counseling for individuals and families, and programs intended to strengthen families and help keep children safe.

“We have a lot of preservation programs, counseling for kids in schools and parenting classes for really intensive home-based programs,” Nykamp said.

“We help them with parenting and budgeting needs, or find a new place to live, programs that help vulnerable families.”

John Wheeler, owner and chief executive officer of Rockford Construction, founded the rally.